The Energy Collection sandwiches titanium dioxide with pigments from plants like spinach and blueberries between the glass walls of the vessels, acting as a solar cell to generate an electrical current when sunlight passes through.

The technology was invented by Michael Graetzel at Swiss research centre EPFL and van Aubel applied it to household items that can be used as normal while they generate power throughout the day.

They can then be connected to a shelving system that acts as a giant battery and incorporates USB power outlets for charging mobile phones or powering a small lamp.

The project was announced as winner of the €15000 prize yesterday at the Van Abbemuseum in Eindhoven, where the nominated projects remain on show until 28 October.